Pages

December 29, 2012

Last December 27th, I woke up having the crazy urges to get as much Starbucks Mugs as I possibly can. Well I have to confess that Collecting is really one of my addictions in life, once I want something I have to get it right away, fast, if possible. And in the morning my dad said that he can't promise me but he is planning for us to have dinner at Tagaytay. My thoughts lit up and suddenly I remembered that Tagaytay has a Starbucks GI Mug!

So at lunch time, I asked my dad if ever the plans are still on the move but since my Yeya is not around at the house and will not be home overnight, we can't leave the house for dinner. I was quite sad and told him about the Starbucks mug and then he said Ok, we'll leave at 1 pm and I was ECSTATIC! So at 1 pm, we rode the truck all the way upland to Tagaytay. We drove slowly savoring the cool mountain air until we reached Starbucks Robinson's Tagaytay. There are only two Starbucks branches in the city but this one has lesser people so we stopped there.

Grande Cafe Mocha at Starbucks Robinson's TagaytayPS the focus were on the chairs not on the cup HAHA EXCUSES!

Unfortunately, Very unfortunately, only the Philippines Mug were on display and no signs of Tagaytay Mug were there but still I was hopeful maybe they have some stocks kept. But when I asked the Kuya barista, he checked and it was confirmed, No Starbucks tagaytay Mug for me on that store! Oh bummer! I just got dad a Grande Cafe Mocha and a Cinnamon swirl and I asked him if we could visit the other Starbucks at Magallanes and the supportive dad he is, of course he agreed!

So we buckled up and went straight to the Starbucks overlooking the beautiful Taal Lake. I was praying so hard that may this be it so that my dad's efforts for me to grab this mug will not be gone to waste. So we went inside, THE QUEUE WAS SOOOO LONG, but I did not care because you know what? They do have the Tagaytay Mug! There were actually around ten on display so I grabbed one for me and dad asked me to buy one for his boss and then my journey through the long line began. I was literally at the door and after a few minutes, my dad came zooming by and got the mugs from my hand and asked to follow me.

I was so nervous! WHAT'S MY DAD UP TO! But then when we got to the other side of the store, where the baristas are calling names and serving the drinks, I realized that dad modestly asked the barista if we can skip through the line since we're just buying mugs and not drinks. Although it was quite rude for the people in line, it was quite understandable I guess since all we need are those mugs to be punched scanned and paid so there it was. We thanked the kind lady barista and zoomed out of the store into the back where the beautiful Tagaytay Caldera and the Taal Volcano greeted us as if shouting CONGRATULATIONS ON YOUR THIRD MUG!

Me and my Tagayaty Mug!

After all these things, I realize that this Starbucks Mug Collecting was truly challenging but will be a very good experience as I collect mug after mug just like what my American Friend Leif Hagen told me "Enjoy the journey!" when I posted my photo of me and the mug. I realized that as a traveler, you don;t just buy the things to add them up to your collection because it comes with the experience, a journey to get these things and make them your treasures.

Daddy with the Mug! I am sorry daddy my shot of you was not so nice but thank you so much for being a very supportive Dad!

Thank you so much Dad for always being supportive as you can with all my collections and even with my dreams. You are always a blessing to me. God Bless you more and may you live a long life so you can also enjoy everything that I will earn and learn as I trudge through this life.

The STARBUCKS TAGAYTAY mug features the beautiful Taal Volcano on the front and the Taal Lake at the back of the Mug.

It all started when my brother Kuya Erson from California started asking me to get him Mugs for his Mug Collection. As all of my friends know well, I am a die hard Collector. Collector of Collections! I have so many collections! From Pictures, Immigration Stamps, Maps, Books, Wine Bottles, Landmark Figurines and so much more!

So when I was rummaging my closet for things for my travel journal, I suddenly saw a Starbucks Paper Bag with something inside, the Hong Kong Starbucks mug I bought for my Kuya (but never arrived to him) on my trip to Hong Kong, Victoria Harbour and saw how beautiful it looks!

I always see these mugs whenever I get coffee at Starbucks Branches but when I started staring at it , I realize how nice it looks and how beautiful to collect these mugs of the same format, same size with different designs of cities and countries! So on that day I decided to make it my first piece to my own collection of the Starbucks Global Icon Mugs.

Then at Christmas Day, I went to Starbucks in the newly opened mall in the City of Imus, the District and I got my second mug, Philippines!

So my first two Starbucks Global Icon Mugs are Hong Kong and Philippines

The STARBUCKS HONGKONG mug features the Historic HongKong Peak tram at the front and at the back, the breath-taking view of the HongKong Skyline at Victoria Harbour.

The STARBUCKS PHILIPPINES mug shows the mighty Philippine Eagle at the front and the mighty rice terraces at the rear design. My Current progress for the Starbucks Mug Collection: 2 Mugs
You can see my list of Mugs at the upper right side of the Sidebar by clicking on the Starbucks mermaid Image!

September 18, 2012

Before the Malaysia Trip, our first stop was the Lion City of Asia, Singapore! Singapore is a City State in an island located at the bottom tip of the Malay Peninsula. It boasts of being a Fine City, Fine in the sense that each and every simple thing that is prohibited will force you to pay a fine which is nice so that locals even tourists would have to abide by it.

The Merlion at Sentosa

One of the best places to see in Singapore is Sentosa, an island resort located at the island of Sentosa which houses several places including Golf Courses, Hotels and the Resort's World Singapore which features the Universal Studios Singapore. Getting there, ride the MTR (Purple Line) until the last station which is Harbour Front until you reach Vivo City which is Singapore's Largest shopping mall. On the Third Level, the shuttle monorail train which is officially called Sentosa Express will take you to the island.

Several packages are available for purchase before boarding the Sentosa Express but a 3.50 SGD Entrance fee should be paid as well excluding the package. We arrived in the afternoon so we chose to avail of the Evening Play Pass for just 26.90 SGD you can now choose three of their attractions which you can enjoy from 6 pm until 10 pm.

When we arrived at the park, we had a few photos taken at the Merlion, okay not a few, a lot of shots taken at the Merlion (I was with my camwhore Friends during this trip remember?) And then after a lot of shots, we went to our first ride, it is the Luge and Skyride. We first rode the Luge and it was so much fun! We were riding downhill on a three wheeled cart with only go and breaks which is so much fun! I bumped on one of the railing which gave me a hard time going downhill! but when I got through it, the ride came swift and fast. Until I reached the end! Amazing, really!

Ate Judy and Myrcel on the Skyride

On our way back, we rode the Skyride. A maximum of four people seated on an open air gondola (I don't know if it's called a gondola but I'll call it one anyway) and you will go up high about a hundred feet above the ground and it feels so good while you are up high! I chose to ride alone so I can feel the thrill! I was wearing flops and my feet started to sweat but I got hold of myself and it was really fun! Some of my friends still have this strong fear of heights. I overcame mine when I went Skywalking at Cebu a few years ago.

After the ride, it was time to get to the Songs of the Sea, a famous production inside the park and was our Second of the three attractions for our Night Pass. But the way to it was the most memorable part of the Sentosa Trip for all of us. Guided by the map, we were confident to walk downhill hoping that we will reach the Songs of the Sea in no time. We went walking and walking downhill and then it started to get dark and dark. The sun is slowly lurking down and massive hedges were blocking what's left of its rays. It's like we are on a scary horror movie trapped on a massive hedge maze.

Me at the road starting to feel lost (This shot was staged obviously but we really are lost)

Then when the road seemed endless, we can't help it but just laugh and laugh because when we saw the entrance to the Golf Course, there we were, truly lost. That's what we are, laughing at ourselves knowing that we are indeed lost. But we continued walking downhill until we saw the bus that took us up again to the Park proper. And luckily, there it was when we went got down the bus, we were just a few yards away from the Songs of The Sea. So we went inside the outdoor theater and the view was spectacular! The story was set along the beautiful stilt houses built on the shoreline of the beach. The staging was beautiful and the laser, lights and fire effects were truly amazing! Here are a few shots of the Show:

Water sprouts and blue lights

Fiery Lights and fantastic effects

Firework Finale

Me and my Ate Judy on a blurry shot after the show

After the show, we grabbed a speedy but heavy dinner at McDonald's then we went straight to the Cable Car Ride which will close at 9:30 in the evening, we chose this one as our last of the three Attractions since it will take us back to Harbour Front so that we can ride the MTR back in time because we still want to see the Marina Bay at Night. we rushed our way and the people are nice enough to accommodate us. While boarding, the view was absolutely fantastic! So Beautiful that my eyes were fixed on the view and my camera was left on the bag haha!

Sentosa was amazing! It is a mini world of the Asia we know. It has musical sights and colorful sounds that will truly leave a mark on anybody's hearts forever. See it for yourself! It was amazing!

September 12, 2012

First of all, Thank you Lord for yet another Country on this Blog's Sidebar which I made my Travel Directory! It truly is a big blessing to Add Malaysia and on my next rant, Singapore! Many more countries Lord, Thanks in Advance :)

When I hear the Word "Malaysia" of all the things I know about this beautiful South East Asian Country, it is always and will always be the towering, silvery bright Petronas Towers flashing on the screens of my brain. This was by far the most beautiful skyscraper I have seen in my entire life in my travels.

The Petronas Towers at Night. Stunning!

After dinner at Jalan Nagasari from a very generous Indian Restaurant owner who gave us a great buffet dinner just a few blocks away from our Hotel, we thanked the man and bound a taxi that took us directly to KLCC where the Twin Towers are located. We all know that hagling is prohibited between the drivers and the passengers but we can't refuse because it is night time and we hate to argue. Besides, the price is not that high (8 MYR) so we said yes and he took us there.

As the towers get bigger and bigger to my very own eyes, we come closer and closer and closer until it went blocked from our view when we got down our cabs because the Mall was on our sight. Of course if you look up, the Towers will be seen in above the Mall but I refuse to give it a look that early because my friends are still on the other cab and we are waiting for them. I truly am quite the sentimental so I told myself to take that grand, complete look when I'm at the most perfect angle to see it.

When the rest of my friends arrived, we gathered around and started walking beside KLCC Mall and there were so many Malaysian Flags floating and flying around the place, actually most of Kuala Lumpur, since August is the month wehre the Malaysian Independence Day is celebrated.

The Vertical version of the Malaysian Flag on a building close to the Towers.

So when we were already at the front of the Towers, I continued walking through the offed fountains until I reach the very posible end wherein other tourists and travelers are in. When I saw them taking their own shots, I realize that it's time for me to take that marvelous and most awaited perfect angle look. And there it was, shining ever so bright along the beautiful sounds of Kuala Lumpur. The Towers truly are the star at the grounds of the City. The feeling was breath-taking!

My Friends are all so busy taking pictures of them with the tower! If there are people called Camwhores, they are the special breed of those species! When one has a good shot at some place, all of them should have one of the same shot, WITH THE SAME POSE! Hahaha It's so much fun being with them!

Me in front of the Towers

Will I let that moment pass without a shot of me in front of the Petronas wonder? of course not! Thank you so much to my friend Dianne for taking this cute shot of me and the Towers!

Once seen only on movies and on Travel shows but now, I am on my own travel show at front of the Tallest structure in South East Asia. It was a sweet moment I wish would last forever (But it did last long though). The whole moment, I savored the beauty of the Petronas!

It was truly an experience of a lifetime! Seeing the towers with my very own eyes is truly breath taking! Taylor Swift(Love Her!) kept on using the Word "Wonderstruck" and that was probably the word to describe the overall feeling I had when I was on that very moment! I will never forget that encounter between me and the twin towers that happened that evening of the 8th of August of 2012! It was very sweet and passionate!

And of course, What trip can be better without the presence of your High School Friends! We call ourselves High School Friends but we have been friends and classmates ever since Kindergarten! We did had our ups and downs through the years but on that very moment, on that very trip, It was all fun and love! I love you guys so much! Thanks for sharing my Malaysian Moment!

Me and my High School Friends in front of the Petronas. Myrcel, Dianne, Ivy, Ate Judy and Lea

And also, May I present you my latest travel Video "Where is Sir Steve?". I got the concept from the Great Man Matt Harding's Where the Hell is Matt! These features my travels since May of 2011 from the Philippines up to my Asian Adventures at Hong Kong, Macau, Singapore and Malaysia. Hope you guys enjoy!

July 26, 2012

Once a Cathedral built during the 16th Century by the Portuguese, The Ruins of Saint Paul or the Ruinas de Sao Paolo in Portuguese, is now a landmark and a national symbol of Macau Special Administrative Region, China. Now listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Facade of the Cathedral of Saint Paul is the only left atop the hill along the Old Complex.

Facade of the Ruinas de Sao Paolo

From the Galaxy hotel wherein we had our first Lunch in Macau from Hong Kong, we took a Cab that went straight from Taipa to Macau which is on Mainland China. It is connected by very long bridges to and from Macau and Taipa. In the heart of the city, the Senado Square is Located. It is a beautiful Town Square wherein the Original Colonial Buildings are still conserved and in use up to this moment.

The Senado Square at Midday

The Square is Paved with small decorated tiles all the way up to the alleys leading to the Ruins at the top of the hill. One of the Buildings that are featured in the Senate Square is the Leal Senado Building or the Loyal Senate in Portuguese. It was erected at 1774 with the administration of Portuguese people and when Macau was turned over to China, it became the headquarters of the Institute of Civic & Municipal Affairs. (Big thanks to my friend Wikipedia)

Another picture of me in front of Leal Senado Building.

As you trudge through the paved ways that gradually gets higher and higher, the first thing that you will pass by just before the avenida becomes alleyways is the Santo Domingo Church. It is a Big Church Painted in Yellow which I shall be featuring on my next posts. And tons of shops and outlets from Levis to Giordano to Adidas are lined up beautifully along the way.

Aside from these Big shops of popular brands, a lot of smaller stores also are lining up as the alleys become higher and higher, smaller and smaller. As people crowd up, it means you are getting closer and closer

Some of the little crossings along the alleys that lead to the Ruins.

Though there are crossroads along the way, it is not that hard to reach the Ruins because Signs are posted along the road all in Chinese Characters, Portuguese and English Language. Along the way, as you pass the Cookie and Beef Jerky shops, one little stall you will surely notice because of the people that line up is the Turkish Man's store! He serves Fresh and Authentic Turkish Ice Cream that everybody seams to Love! (i fail to have a taste of it because of the crowd! maybe when I get to Istanbul someday)

Turkish Man selling his Ice Cream.

As the road gets very narrow and the shops seem to sandwich you along the way, you can now see it straight. As it gets bigger and bigger to sight, you get closer and closer to the Ruins. It's a beautiful sight to see and as to most Landmarks, I told myself "Wow! Now I'm in Macau!". It was beautiful and the feeling is just so rewarding! That after miles and miles and a few hundred yards of walking, I'm there, I reached the top!

The view from the Ruins from beyond. It gets closer and closer and closer.

Never will I forget this trip especially this very moment that I have shared with you! Macau truly is enchanting, a natural concoction of East and West over a period of Time. Macau is just magical!

Me at the Ruinas de Sao Paolo.

Physically at the Office, but while I write and my head is just filled with freshest memories of Macau. Never Stop Dreaming!
Steven^^

June 25, 2012

Built during the later half of the 70's Ocean Park Hong Kong opened on September 1977 headed by the British Governor of Hong Kong. It is situated at the Southern District of the Hong Kong S.A.R. which has been catering to millions of tourists, Asians and beyond the borders of the region!

Ocean Park Hong Kong

The Park is HUGE! As you enter, there is this Giant fountain situated at the center but the hugeness doesn't stop there because it is just about a third of the park in view! The rest of the park is situated beyond the mountain wherein you have to take the train that leads you up or of course, their famed cable car that will bring you up high in the mountains while you enjoy a spectacular view.

The view of the Park as you enter it from the gates

I was so excited to ride the cable car and Kuya Jonjon said it was quite a ride and that He and Ate Ardel will just take the Train. I was quite nervous about it knowing that they will not ride it again but he said it is a great experience so that I should try it!

Before we get to the other side, we decided to have lunch first! It was around 2 pm at that moment because we have been to Victoria in the morning together with the Sampan Cruise which I shall be featuring on another post. So we strolled along the Old Hong Kong part of the Park and we decided to have some Noodles and Beef Brisket! I must tell you their servings are HUGE!

Beef Brisket Noodles

After lunch, We parted ways with Kuya Jonjon and Ate Ardel as they are to take the train ride to the other side of the mountain. So I, Ate Judy, Ate Ming and Gabe, yup! Gabe, my five year old nephew, so brave he would like to join us with the Cable Car Ride! I am so proud of my nephew because he is not just smart and kind, I also have found out how brave he is!

So there it goes! We went straight then slowly the cable cars are about to go above the mountain so the ride was smooth but the view is just spectacular! I can remember the scene from one of my favorite movies, "All my Life" wherein Kristine is so afraid while she was in the cable car ride high in the forests of Langkawi in Malaysia. And Aga said something like, "Kung hindi mo bubuksan ang mga mata mo sa mga bagay na nakapaligid sayo, hindi mo makikita kung gaano ito kaganda" or in English, If you're not going to open your eyes to the things around you, you can never appreciate its beauty. That scene is just so memorable to me and I agree with that! Okay too much about these drama, it was so beautiful up high!

The view midway from the Cable Car ride just across the mountain.

Me inside one of the Gondollas up high and enjoying the spectacular view!

As we went down from the ride, we were waiting for Kuya Jon and Ate Ardel and when we caught up with them, they got us an Ice cream break and it was sooooo good! It has these raspberries that I have only seen in pictures because we don't have them here in the Philippines and they tasted so good! Way better than strawberries I must say! Then when I was sitting, I felt that my shoes are slowly killing my feet! It really had me walking weirdly so Kuya Jonjon and Ate Ardel bought me some slippers! Yeay!

My feet suffering from these leather loafers from my Uncle Ben! Well what can I do I Looove these shoes and I really like wearing them!

While having Ice cream, the view from the Ice Cream Parlor is just astounding! I really feel like I'm in Monaco and the view of the French Riviera is just absolutely enticing! Hong Kong truly is magnificent! By the way, I brought some friends from home and finally, my Snoopy Hong Kong got back to his home country! Yeay for you Snoopy!

Welcome Home Snoopy Hong Kong!

So after some Ice cream, Kuya Jon let us roam around the park, just me and my Ate to try some rides! So of course, what will I ask my Ate more than one of my favorite things on Earth, FERRIS WHEEL! And Ate said they do have one so we started circling around the Park! Mind if I tell you, these map things that they give at the entrance, they REALLY do come in handy especially on Ocean Park Hong Kong wherein the roads are like snakes and dragons swirling around the whole area and you can get lost in circles if you really don't try the map!

So we did reached the Ferris Wheel! The ride's queue was quite long but it wasn't that bad because the weather is nice and there are fans orbiting along the queue. While in the line we hear a lot of Tagalog speaking people, of course Filipinos and it is always so nice to have your own people around you. Then there was this Chinese man in front of me who was very friendly and smiles in all but he keeps on talking to me in Mandarin! I can see how he kind of feels sorry whenever I can't respond to his questions and stories because I can't understand him but he stills smiles after.

So when it was our turn, I was so excited! I just love Ferris Wheels! I mean I was afraid of heights as in VERY AFRAID when I was still a teener but since I skywalked Cebu, believe me, it helped a lot and now, heights are just so relaxing to me (as long as I am not suspended on air with just some string) and the view, literally breath-taking!

My Ate Judy at the Ferris Wheel Ride at Ocean Park Hong Kong

After the ride we felt really refreshed and calmed. the slight stress from picking the wrong routes to the Wheel was left on the air! So before heading back to Ate Ardel's, My Ate treated me some Iced Coffee from McDonald's inside the park! We both have seen how Hong Kong Fastfood and even other companies allow people of elder age to still work at the counters and at these establishments. Me and my Ate both have a soft heart when it comes to elder people and we felt really happy that in Hong Kong, Age is never a discriminatory factor! And this lady at the cashier who sold us the coffees is just so nice and her smile is just so contagious! I hope my country allows older people as well, someday I guess.

Me and my Iced Coffee while resting on a Marble bench at the Park

After some coffee we went back to Kuya Jon, Ate Ardel, Ate Ming and Gabe. We went back to the Front part of the Park and this Time by Train! It was so cool just like a Mine Train going straight directly to the Center of the Earth! When the ride was over, we went to the Ocean Park Grand Aquarium! It was really HUGE! I think this is the third time I said HUGE on this post because the Park really is Big! Thousands of Fishes of different kinds can be seen inside even our National Fish the Bangus or the Milkfish has its own Exhibit inside the Aquarium!

One of the Giant Aquariums at Ocean Park Hong Kong

When the sun bade its goodbye for the day, we had dinner at the Panda Restaurant inside the Park while we wait for our Coach. As we were walking this Kind Sharky Mascot was there to have some pictures with the guests! And of course, Will I and Gabe take pass to this opportunity? We can't swim with the Shark so a Picture would be nice right? Thanks to Kuya Jon who got this shot!

Me and Gabe and Sharky! Ok Gabe is just so cute!!!

Ocean Park Hong Kong is just so vast and so huge and all its rides and attractions will truly give you long lasting memories! Will I come back given an opportunity? Yes I will! I am a Sea Person! I love Nautical themed clothes, houses, and of course, Sea Themed Parks like this one!
Never Stop Dreaming, Never stop Travelling!
Steven^^

June 24, 2012

Hong Kong, Asia's World City is a Special Administrative Region of the People's Republic of China. Once a British Colony in the Orient, the British Rule over the Islands ended on July 1, 1997 or much known as the Handover.

It was my first time in Hong Kong and it marked itself as my Fourth Country/Territory that I have visited. It was very exciting because my Mom had been here last 1990 on a Vacation trip with my father and my Grandparents! The fact that I chose Hong Kong to Celebrate my birthday in makes me miss her so much! I love you so much Mommy and I know you helped me reach Hong Kong.

We left NAIA Terminal 3 in Manila at 1915H via Cebu Pacific Flight. We arrived about Two hours after at Hong Kong International Airport. It was huge I must say! I think it is bigger than Suvarnabhumi but I have to be honest, the design of the Suvarnabhumi Airport in Bangkok is just so much better and much more Artistic than the Hong Kong International Airport.

As soon as we arrived, we were carried by the bus which fetched us up on a remote part of the Airport to the Arrival Gates leading us to the Immigration Process. It was a very liberating experience because it is the very first time I get on the plane with just me and my Ate! Ok we were not just the ones inside the plane generally but I mean it was just the two of us, no other friends and family! But when we got there, we waited for a few minutes for my Cousin Kuya Jonjon and Ate Ardel's Flight! I was so excited to see Gabe, my nephew and I was truly looking forward to a great trip just like our trip to Boracay with them, Kuya Jon, Ate Ardel, Gabe and Ate Ming!

Me at the Chek Lap Kok Airport or the Hong Kong International Airport Arrival Area

It was also a sad moment because my Faux leather jacket just slowly deteriorated as we arrive. Yup! Deteriorate as in the Polyurethane shell of the jacket just started flaking all over and I really will miss my Zara jacket! We've been through together for quite a while!

As soon as we got of the Airport via Coach that will directly lead us to the hotel, I started to get ecstatic with the beautiful Night View of the Territory! The Bus ride to the hotel, Panda Hotel, was quite a while from the airport that gave us the chance to see the beautiful lights that float around the city! From high rise buildings, to the suspension bridges, everything is just on fire! And of course, Double Decker Buses! Now, I can say that I'm on Hong Kong!

First sights of Hong Kong through my lenses! Buildings and Double Decker Buses

This is actually our Second Trip with Kuya Jon and Ate Ardel since Boracay last January and I really enjoy Travelling with them! Not just because they are very kind to bring us and help us having carefree travels which make us feel like luxurious tourists haha but most of all, they are just so fun to be with! All the stories we exchange and all the laughs we do together with Gabe and Ate Ardel's Mom Ate Ming, it is just irreplaceable!

As we arrived at the Hotel, it was so, Panda-y!!! With Panda walls, panda figurines and stuffed animals, we are definitely in Panda Hotel! It was around 10 pm when we finally settled down our check in requirements and went to our rooms! So Kuya Jon decided that we should grab some dinner at some McDonald's since it's quite late so we just have to get thighs through 7/11 and a 24 hour McDonald's! I am so excited because visiting those two establishments gave me things that truly I can appreciate the difference between my country and the other that I am visiting, just like in Bangkok!

The Panda Hotel Lobby located at the 3rd Floor. Hotel Lobbies on this part of the world are not usually found at the Ground Floor.

So after we had our dinner at our rooms, we settled down to bed for a good night's sleep! Panda Hotel is a cozy place to retire for busy leisure days around Hong Kong! I particularly like their bed sheets that are just so soft and will truly give you a good night sleep in comfort! Their Buffet Breakfast is as great as well with a wide array of food from Hash Brows to Deli Goods, an egg salon to a salad bar. And the best thing about it for me, the Ketchup, it's like SOUP on a giant bowl wherein you use a laddle to help yourself with it! there you got it, I LOVE Ketchup! It is located inside the Mainland so it is quite far from the Harbour and the Shopping Districts but you can reach Disneyland from it much faster than other Hotels from other districts.

The bew Doggy enjoying the view from our Room's window at Panda Hotel

This is Ate Judy and Gabe waiting for our Bus on the First morning.

Our First stop was Victoria Harbour! I was so much excited, okay excited will not even describe it the least because Victoria Harbour! THAT is what HONG KONG pictures in my mind every time I hear it! Just as too Lady Liberty to NYC and Eiffel to Paris, the Cloudy, building dense harbour is what Hong Kong is to me! So on our ride to the harbour, we are joined by other Pinoy Tourists inside the bus! Our Guide Jenny from Continental travel and Tours is just so nice and bubbly! She knows so much not of her own City but of the Philippines as well and it made us very happy and special while we were inside the bus! She even thought us some Cantonese!

And so we arrived! As I got my first glimpse of it, as usual, I stopped, stared and savored that very moment! I just can't believe I am actually there, at that very spot facing the whole harbour! Forgive me for being such a drama king but I'm sorry I just really am, this is how SERIOUS I am when it comes to travelling around, I am DEAD SERIOUS about it and every trip is truly a BIG DEAL for me, the place does not just make it a big deal for me, I MAKE IT A BIG DEAL FOR ME!

The Great View of the Victoria harbour has been transformed into a beautiful boardwalk park and they named it the Avenue of the Stars! Just like in Hollywood but it features their own Hong Kong and Chinese Celebrities like the Pinoy Favorite Jacky Chan, Fu Chi and so much more. But the Star of all the Stars is of course, the legendary Bruce Lee. The park was built when he was already deceased so in memory of him is a big statue of him and his famous Kung Fu/Karate Chop Pose at the very end of the Avenue.

Me, Gabriel and Ate Judy posing at the Bruce Lee Statue! Photo taken by Kuya Jonjon.

Me at Fu Chi's Handprint. I don't know Fu Chi but I just think the name's cute hahaha

The Hong Kong Trip was truly memorable even if this is just the very first part of our Four Day Hong Kong - Macau Adventure! Stay tuned for more stories on this trip including rants about the Park near the Ocean, Something that brings Europe to Asia and of course, A story about our favorite Mouse!

4. Biking around town during the Afternoon hours (Will not be able to do so this semester as my classes are from 12-7 at most.

5. Nights dedicated to nothing but watching FRIENDS, Once Upon a Time and Dream High

6. Missing the greatest students that I loved so much and not seeing them in the school premises BIT45 and BCS42 Batch 2012 (We Are Family)...
AND SO MUCH MORE! Good Bye Summer, May the Semester be nice to me and all my students :D

By
Steven Que

April 24, 2012

It all started as a DREAM. GOD made me do it, My STUDENTS Inspired me to take it. And my COUNTRY, THE PHILIPPINES Convinced me I need to make it! AND THANKS TO ALL YOUR PRAYERS AND HOPES, I MADE IT!!!! GOD BLESS US ALL!!! CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL THE LET PASSERS! MAY THE PHILIPPINES REAP WHAT IT SOWED ON US ALL!

5491 QUE, STEVENSON MASDAL (MATHEMATICS)

I AM NOW A PROFESSIONAL TEACHER OF MY COUNTRY, THE PHILIPPINES! I may be happy now I am a Licensed teacher, But I am PROUD TO BE A FILIPINO TEACHER!

To Mommy, MOMMY!!! WE DID IT AGAIN!!! Thank you so much! I know you were with me all the Way as I took this Board Exam!!! Mommy! May Anak na kayong LICENSED TEACHER!!! LOVE YOU SO MUCH MOMMY!!!!

Ate Charito, My number One Supporter mula palang sa Teaching Demo ko sa LaSalle Up until sa Pagtuturo ko at sa Pagkuha ko ng Board. She was always there for me! Thank you so much Ate Chatty!!! You have always been one of the pillars sa ating magpipinsan and you have always been there to support me kahit anu pa man tinake kong career! Thank you very very much!!!!

Ate Carmeline Thank you very very much! Ikaw din, you have always been supporting me from the very beginning!!! Bago palang ako pumasok ng college tinulungan mo na ako sa UPCAT ko kahit di ako pinalad you have always been there for me still up until now! Thank you very much Ate Mee! Love yah so much and I will always be your Number 1 Fan!!! :D

April 10, 2012

I Don't own the Song nor Do I intend any Copyright Infringement!MUSIC: SALAMAT by YENG CONSTANTINO of STAR RECORDS

World's Greatest Wonders ranges from the Pyramids to the Great Wall, to the Modern Natural Wonders of Puerto Princesa Underground. But for me, It's Plain and Simple, The Greatest World Wonder God has given me are composed of 2 groups of Five letters, BIT45 and BCS42. I will forver be Grateful and thankful for giving me the HONOR of knowing you guys and being your teacher! I WILL LOVE YOU ALL FOREVER! ANIMO BCS42!!! ANIMO BIT45!!! ANIMO LA SALLE DASMA!!!

April 2, 2012

I dreamed about my Mommy Ghing again a few minites ago. It was Long! She was already sick and we all knew Dying when she wanted to go to Divi with me! So we went together then she pulled me on the Karaoke Section and forced me to sing! The song played "Beautiful" by Christina Aguilera! I was singing while I was looking at her and she was so proud of me! After the song, they clapped and we even got our Pictures taken via our Camera Phones! After that, I was to go to Bicol but then she went with me still!

While on the Bus, she started her final breathes. It was very sad and then I asked her if she accepted Jesus as her Saviour with all her heart and she said yes and we both Prayed and she even lead the prayer, a Personal prayer! We were both crying but It was tears of joy! She was having a hard time to breathe! I even saw her dentures break! and she went out Gracefully! I was hugging her while I was crying yet I was happy with the honor of having her with me while she was dying...

It was long since I dreamed of her! Maybe she's giving me some kind of a message! That even though the setting of my dream was about her, dying, it was kind of different from the real thing that happened! WE WERE SHOPPING, SINGGING, TRAVELING on her last Day of Life and we were both so Happy! Everytime I dream of her, I wake up VERY REFRESHED!!!

April 1, 2012

Finally, Something I have been dreaming of having on my Blog, A Boracay Post! First of all,To KUYA JONJON and ATE ARDEL, if there is such a Thing as an UNLIMITED THANK-YOU, It goes from the bottom of my heart going to you!

Whenever Anyone hears from me or other people about how I love to travel and go around the country, They would always ask me first, Boracay? It always been a simple yet involuntary response, a Frown! I have been to so many Islands and Provinces around the Philippines but I have never been to the most famous Island in the Philippines!

It has always been a reason of the fame and popularity of Boracay which is the reason why, maybe, I still haven't been there yet. But as the year Started, I had the greatest news in my Life! My cousin Kuya Jonjon and Ate Ardel wanted to go to the Island as treat for her sister Abbey for her short Vacation here in the Philippines from California! And Kuya Jon and Ate Ardel are just so so nice to invite me to join! I was almost in tears when they asked me about it because they are just so so so nice to bring me to Boracay, somewhere I have never been to and I have always wanted to go to!

PR 323 Philippine Airlines Flight bound from Manila to Kalibo

KenJay, Monique, Ate Judy and Abbey at the Back

We arrived at Kalibo International Airport at the province of Aklan. Our flight was delayed for quite a while but of course, even if flights are delayed for an hour or two, it will always be worth it for as long as you arrive to your destination safe and sound!

Me at Kalibo International Airport, the Main Airport of the Province of Aklan.

After our Bags have been claimed, we bounded a Van on the way to the Port of Caticlan, the Gateway to the Magnificent Island of Boracay! The ride will last for about an hour but since our stay at Boracay, January 12-14, also marks the beginning of the Ati-Atihan Season, a well known Festival held all throughout Aklan, the ride lasted for about 2 hours due to heavy traffic in the Metro Area.

Also the ride is a little whirly due to sharp curves so if you are someone who gets dizzy during these roads, better to take something that will make you feel well!

We arrived at Caticlan Port at late twilight and as we bounded our ferry boats that will take us straight to the Island, it was already dark. But even if the darkness envelopes the skies that night, it did not darkened our excitements! the ride lasted for about 20 minutes.

The Ferry Boat, Closed with windows, that took us to Boracay Island

As we arrive at the port, we rode a Van for about 15 minutes and it took us to Crown Regency Hotel where we shall be staying for Two nights while we are in this Tropical Paradise! It was only me and my Ate Judy in our room and it was Grand! GRAND I must say! The rooms are spacious and the Air-conditioning is very well!

Our room at Crown Regency Hotel

But of course, my most favorite part of the Hotel rooms that I usually check first besides the beds, the BATHROOM! I Love the Bathroom! With this Giant Flush and Pink Marble Walls and Floors that reminded me of my own Bathroom at home but this time it was cleaner and shinier!

Gigantic Flush on the Pink Marbled Bathroom

Boracay is boasting of its Fine White sand! And at the first time I set foot and saw the sand, It was like I'm in a movie! I grabbed some sand and felt in in my palm and my face was so funny I was so amazed! No wonder why this place is World Famous and Flocks and Flocks of Tourists from Russia, USA, Europe, Australia, Korea and almost all the world fell in love with it!

I have been to Bantayan Island in Cebu, Pagudpud in Ilocos, Puerto Princesa in Palawan, Guimaras Island, Bohol, but I can really say that it has been the best beach I have ever been to! The Water is Crystal Clear and the food is just AMAZING!

Me and my Ate Judy at the Beach in front of our Hotel

My Boracay Story can never ever be fitted into one single post to describe how BEAUTIFUL this Island is and how WONDERFUL this trip is! But here are some more of the Memorable pictures that I shall include in this first rant!

There at Boracay was the very first time I've had Lobsters!

Me with the World Famous BORACAY SUNSET

My very very cute Nephew Gabriel and Doggy! We got so much closer because of this trip :) Love You Gabe Gabe!

Ate Ardel, Gabe and Kuya Jonjon, The WONDERFUL People that made it posible for me to be there!

And of course as always, one of the best things about any travel are the people that are with you on your trip! The moments you shared together, the laughs, the stories, it will never ever be bought at any amount whatsoever! Thank you all so much for letting me share this trip with you all! I will forever be grateful and truly will remember all those times at the sands of Paradise!